Tahoe National Forest
A cool experience with 6 to 10 mile hikes
Trek into the wilderness and sleep in the backcountry
Ideal for first-timers
Pups are welcome at camp and on hiking trails
Places we've visited and fallen in love with
Trip · 3-day backpacking trip
For · Friends and new backpackers
Vibe · Moderate and fun
Distance · 19 miles and 2,995 feet of elevation gain
Permits · Nope, just apply for a CA campfire permit online
Drive · 3.5 hours from SF
Ideal dates · May to September
Pets · Welcome on trails and campgrounds!
Tahoe National Forest (THN) is 871,400+ acres of breathtaking mountains, wildflower meadows, and crystal clear reservoirs. It's one of the most popular national forests in the country, and you don't need a permit to explore its backcountry. TNF is located northwest of the popular Lake Tahoe, but swap the crowds for climbing the Sierra Buttes, hiking a section of the Pacific Crest Trail, or swimming in the Yuba River. TNF has it all.
Official Forest Service Website
Latest Forest Alerts and Notices
Main image credit: Reddit
Tahoe is one of eight national forests along California's Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Washoe and Maidu Native American tribes were the first to traverse Tahoe National Forest, before the Gold Rush brought thousands of emigrants to CA.
Black bears roam TNF all year, but keep your site clean and store food and scented items properly, and you'll rarely spot them. Learn more.
It's pricey, but Supergoop! makes putting on sunscreen feel smooth and easy.
Self-Care
A cute and colorful patch that repels mosquitoes with a natural repellent.
Self-Care
Self-care
A neat way to pack, carry, and organize dirty shoes.
Personal Stuff
Clothes
A lightweight, easy to clean customizable leash that comes in a rainbow of colors.
Pets
Pets
A weather-resistant LED collar so your pup stays safe at night.
Pets
Pets
Add this pup medication and liquid bandage bundle to your first aid kit.
Pets
Pets
Enjoy the small town charm and enchanting wilderness in Idyllwild for this beginner camping trip.
